Feeling

I'm currently working in an entry-level logistics/procurement role, and I've noticed that my workload has significantly decreased over the past month. I'm only putting in about 4 hours of work each day, even though I'm paid for 8. It's become apparent that while some colleagues are busy, others, including myself, have very little to do. I reached out to my manager to express my availability for more tasks, and she has been assigning me additional work here and there. However, I'm feeling quite anxious about the possibility of layoffs due to the overstaffing situation. One of my coworkers believes that layoffs are unlikely and that we might only face a hiring freeze, which eases my mind a bit. Historically, the company has not engaged in layoffs for a long time, but the current circumstances make me worry. I'm hopeful that if I get promoted, my workload will increase and provide more stability.

I'm 25 and feeling a bit lost in my career after taking a nontraditional path. I graduated from Rutgers in 2024 with degrees in Economics and Communication, but instead of jumping into a corporate job, I spent the last few years modeling in NYC. I've been signed with a major agency and have worked on various commercial and e-commerce projects for well-known brands, along with freelancing in content creation and styling. While I've had some amazing experiences, the work has been inconsistent, which has made me realize I want more stability in my career. Recently, I accepted a part-time job near my parents' house, but it's only two days a week and doesn't provide enough income for independence. I'm now actively applying for full-time positions in creative production, project coordination, and marketing, and I'm starting to feel the pressure of wanting a stable salary, a routine, and my own place. I can't shake the feeling that I'm behind compared to others my age who have established careers and their own apartments. Living at home adds to that feeling, even though I'm grateful for the support. Rationally, I know I've gained valuable experience and skills, and I'm even getting interviews, but emotionally, I keep questioning why I didn't start this journey sooner. I'm reaching out to see if anyone else has felt this way after spending their early 20s freelancing or pursuing unconventional paths. How did you transition into a more traditional career, and how long did it take before you felt established? I'm struggling to differentiate between wanting to make changes now and feeling like I've completely messed up my early 20s. Any insights from those who rebuilt their careers in their mid-to-late 20s would be greatly appreciated.

I recently started a new job at a large company after being unemployed or underemployed for over two years due to a layoff. It's been two months now, and I find myself with very little to do. I completed my virtual training in just two weeks and was supposed to start shadowing, but the opportunities to do so come in very sporadically. Most of the time, I'm just sitting around waiting for tasks or taking extra courses that aren't mandatory. My boss is aware of the situation, and while I'm supposed to eventually get my own clients, I have no estimated timeline for that. I'm starting to wonder if this is typical for a new role in such a large organization. It's quite different from my past experiences at fast-paced startups where I was usually busy within a month. I'm feeling anxious about the possibility of being laid off again.

I lost my job on Friday, and honestly, I feel completely hopeless right now. I had a gut feeling that layoffs were coming, but I didn't expect it to happen so soon. The company I worked for conducted a mass layoff over a Zoom call, and it was shocking to see how they only kept those who were part of their cliques. I’ve been laid off before, but this experience felt so much more personal and painful. When I saw the panic in the eyes of my colleagues who were kept, I knew it was happening to me too. I thought to myself, 'Great, now I have to start all over again.' I'm 26 years old, and I've been struggling to figure out what to do with my life. I was in the mortgage industry and had just been promoted two months ago, so this felt like a huge slap in the face. To make matters worse, I was recently diagnosed with bipolar disorder, and now I'm worried about how I'm going to afford my medication without coverage. The stress and panic are overwhelming, and I just feel lost about the future. I've tried so many different career paths, and I feel like I'm running out of options. I’m trying to figure out my next steps, but everything seems daunting right now.

I recently completed my third year at a music university, achieving a first-class degree, and I'm set to graduate this December. Over the past four months, I've applied to numerous jobs in both the creative industries and other sectors, but I've had little success. My CV highlights my work experience from university, and I’ve also created a portfolio showcasing three years of projects. I've even taken the initiative to visit various post-production studios in London in hopes of finding opportunities. Unfortunately, most of my applications have gone unanswered or resulted in rejections. With the rise of AI and the current job market struggles in the UK, I’m starting to feel like my degree might not lead to the career I envisioned. If anyone knows of any entry-level or graduate positions in the creative field in London, I would greatly appreciate the leads!

I had a first stage interview for a position about three weeks ago, and I felt it went really well. The interviewer gave all the right signals, and I was told I would hear back soon. After a week of silence, I reached out to my recruiter for an update. He reassured me that the interview went well and that I should expect news shortly. However, another two weeks have gone by, and I decided to follow up again because I am very interested in this role. The recruiter informed me that they are currently dealing with some internal processes that are taking longer than expected, but I should hear back soon. I'm starting to wonder if I should be concerned about the delay or if it's normal. Has anyone else experienced such a long wait after a first stage interview? Am I just being impatient?

I recently started my first full-time job in capital markets operations at a bank, and I'm feeling quite uncertain about my experience so far. It's been about three weeks since I joined, and while I have a background with three internships in various banking roles, the support I've received has been lacking. My manager has been mostly absent, especially during my second week, which left me relying heavily on the team lead for training. Unfortunately, the team lead's attitude has been somewhat passive-aggressive, making me feel inadequate for not knowing everything immediately. I'm earning $60K, which feels low considering my previous experience, but I understand that this is an operations role. I was also informed on my first day about the high turnover rate on the team, which now has me questioning if I made the right choice. The team dynamics are quite quiet; everyone seems focused on their work without much interaction or networking, which is disappointing since I hoped to build relationships and explore other areas within the bank. I'm trying to take my time to learn and avoid mistakes, especially since I'm dealing with significant transactions and clients. However, I'm starting to feel like I might not be getting the growth opportunities I expected. Given the lack of support and the overall environment, I'm contemplating whether I should start looking for other roles or if this is just a normal adjustment period for a new grad. I could use some advice from others in banking—does this sound like a bad team, or is it typical for someone in my position?

I’m currently 17 and living in Florida, desperately trying to find a job since I graduated high school. I’ve been applying everywhere—Starbucks, Walmart, various internships, and fast food places like McDonald's and Longhorn, but nothing seems to work out. My dad is pushing me to get a job because he plans to move out of state when I turn 18, and I feel immense pressure to support myself. I’m also stressed about a $120 medical bill that he wants me to pay, which feels like a lot for someone who is unemployed. I’m starting college soon and want to save up for a cheap car, but I feel stuck. I’m even considering technical jobs or nursing, but I can’t start working in those fields until I turn 18. I’m worried I’ll be unemployed for the next eight months and am feeling overwhelmed by the whole situation.

I recently learned that my part-time Administrative Assistant position is being dissolved, and the office is transitioning to hire a full-time Customer Service Representative. I was informed that the position would be mine, but I still need to apply for it. I received the job description just before going on vacation and only got a chance to read it after I arrived at my destination. I was shocked by the extensive responsibilities listed and felt the pay was a slap in the face. I used ChatGPT to analyze the job description and it revealed that the role encompasses duties from three different jobs, yet it’s labeled as entry-level with a pay range of $26-$29 per hour. ChatGPT suggested that, given the workload, the salary should actually be in the mid-$60k range, which is significantly higher than what’s being offered. Additionally, I found out that a coworker who recently got promoted to executive assistant didn’t want to take on many of the responsibilities now included in the new job description. They’re also training the accountant to handle tasks unrelated to their role, which blindsided us both. Meanwhile, my hours have been extended to nine-hour days, while my coworker’s hours were reduced due to their longer commute. While I understand that the experience could enhance my resume, I’m feeling overwhelmed since I lack the necessary training for the new responsibilities, especially regarding business and gaming licenses. The person who previously managed those tasks was let go a few months ago, leaving me without proper guidance. I’m currently at a loss about how to proceed. I’m considering drafting an email to outline my findings about the job description and express my concerns regarding the workload and compensation.

I’m currently helping my wife, who is 25 and an introvert, navigate her job search after feeling burnt out from her sales/account manager position at a local countertop company. The work environment has been really toxic, and she often comes home in a terrible mood. It's heartbreaking to see her cry about work multiple times a month. Unfortunately, her current job is crucial for us financially, as it covers our bills, so the pressure is on to find something new. I’ve been assisting her with applications, but the constant rejections are taking a toll on her mental health. To alleviate some of her stress, I’ve decided to take over her job search and act as a recruiter for her. We’re looking for roles that are in safe office settings, avoiding anything that could put her in a dangerous situation. Her resume highlights her skills, such as managing over 30 commercial client accounts and maintaining a CRM database to track client interactions. I’m hoping to find her a position in a less toxic environment, possibly in retail or commercial customer service, or even inventory management. Any advice on how to approach this or what types of roles might be a good fit would be greatly appreciated.

I’m currently on the job hunt and feeling pretty stuck. As an entry-level applicant, I’ve noticed that the traditional apply-and-wait method isn’t really working for me anymore. With many companies freezing their hiring, I’m struggling to find positions to apply for. I usually focus on a handful of companies that I’m really interested in, but right now, it feels like there’s a lack of good opportunities. I’ve been considering cold emailing CXOs, department heads, and directors, particularly in talent acquisition or recruiting, to see if reaching out directly could lead to any entry-level positions. I’m curious if anyone has tried this approach and whether it’s worth the effort. I’ve heard mixed opinions; some say it’s unlikely to get a response, while others suggest it could be beneficial if I have something specific to offer. I’m eager to hear any experiences or advice on this strategy, as I’m open to trying anything to improve my chances of landing a job.

Today, I had a call with HR from a large company with over 10,000 employees. The conversation started off well as we discussed my experience and background. However, things took a turn when she began asking about my job search activities. She wanted to know how many companies I had applied to, if I had any interviews lined up, and specifically which companies I was interviewing with. When she asked for the names of those companies, I felt uncomfortable sharing that information. I replied that I didn't think it was relevant to the opportunity I was being considered for. She seemed taken aback by my response and said she would get back to me after discussing it with her team. The call ended shortly after that. Now, I'm left wondering if it’s common for HR to ask such detailed questions about my job search. While I understand their interest in knowing if I'm actively looking elsewhere, sharing the names of other companies feels too personal for me. My family thinks I should have just answered her questions politely, but I believe I have the right to keep certain details private during my job search. I'm questioning if my response was appropriate or if I should have approached it differently.

I’m currently unemployed and really struggling to take care of myself. It’s a serious situation for me, and I feel overwhelmed. I’ve been looking for job suggestions that might be suitable for someone with autism, but so far, the advice I've received hasn't been very helpful. I often feel depressed and wish I didn't have autism because I find it hard to understand things and communicate with people. It’s surprising that I’ve made it this far in life, but I’m feeling pretty lost right now.

I just got invited to fly out for a final interview at a company headquarters, and I’m feeling a mix of excitement and nerves. This is a big deal for me since I’m still early in my career and haven’t experienced anything like this before. I’ve gone through multiple interview processes with other companies only to be ghosted, so this feels like a significant step forward. They even called me on a Saturday to book my flight, which makes me think they’re really interested. I’ve heard from others that being flown out is generally a good sign, especially since it involves real expenses for the company. I’m hoping they’ll cover all my travel costs and maybe even provide some meals while I’m there. I know I need to be personable and show my soft skills during the interview, as they’re likely trying to see if I’d fit in with the team. I’m also a bit anxious because we haven’t discussed compensation yet, and I want to make sure I know what to expect before I go. Overall, I’m trying to stay positive and view this as a promising opportunity!

I recently had a concerning experience while interviewing for a position at a small business. Last week, I posted about my worries regarding the owner only responding to emails late at night, which made me question their professionalism and how they might expect me to operate. After receiving feedback from others, I decided to give the owner the benefit of the doubt, understanding that small business owners often have unique schedules. We had some late-night exchanges, and he eventually offered a video interview during lunch. I confirmed my availability for Thursday, but when Thursday morning came, I hadn’t heard back. I followed up with my availability for after 6 PM or lunchtime on Friday. Finally, I received a response at 10:30 PM, suggesting a lunchtime interview on Monday, which I accepted and provided my email for the meeting link. Now, it’s Monday afternoon, past 1 PM, and I still haven’t received any communication. It’s frustrating because if I had been this unresponsive as an applicant, I doubt they would continue to consider me. I’ve decided to move on from this opportunity.

After applying for countless jobs and facing constant rejection, I hit a wall. I used to put so much effort into crafting tailored cover letters, but it felt pointless. Whether I sent a meticulously researched application or just a silly photo of my cat, the responses were the same—nonexistent. This experience has really taken a toll on my mental health, and I've found myself giving up on trying so hard. It’s frustrating to feel like no matter how much effort I put in, I’m not getting anywhere. I’m not sure what my next step should be.

I'm feeling really anxious this week because my dad is facing the possibility of being fired from his job. He's been working at the same company for several years, and the uncertainty is really weighing on both of us. I've been trying to support him as best as I can, but it's tough to see him in this situation. I'm hoping for the best, but preparing for the worst.

I recently found myself in a conversation about a friend who is considering whether to leave her current permanent job for a 12-month contract role at her previous company. She has only been at her new job for two months, having made the switch for a slight salary increase, but she’s already unhappy in her new role. Her old company has offered her the chance to return to her previous position on a contract basis, and while her former boss has indicated that she might be considered for future permanent roles, I can't help but feel skeptical about that assurance. It's a tough decision for her, especially given how brutal the job market is right now. Should she stay in a role she dislikes, or go back to a position she enjoyed, even if it’s just a contract? I shared my own experience of having returned to a previous job and how it worked out for me, but I also pointed out that she needs to consider her personal circumstances, like whether she has dependents or financial commitments that could complicate her decision. In the end, it seems like a risky move to rely on potential future opportunities when the current job market is so uncertain.

I was recently laid off from my job in Pennsylvania and am currently in my waiting week for unemployment compensation (UC). I've been approved for the maximum benefits, which is a relief. Before the layoff, I had started working on a small consulting and technology business as a side project. I bought a domain and was developing my business idea while still employed, but it never generated any income. My job was my main source of income. Now that I’m officially unemployed, I’m actively searching for full-time work and am available for suitable positions. I want to formalize my side business by registering it as a single-member LLC, obtaining an EIN, and potentially opening a payment account, even though I currently have no customers or revenue. I’m concerned about whether registering the LLC will affect my eligibility for full unemployment benefits under Section 402(h). I understand that there’s a sideline business test that looks at whether I was running the business alongside my full-time job, if it continues without significant changes, if it was never my primary source of income, and if I remain available for full-time work. Based on my situation, I believe I meet these criteria, but I’m looking for guidance on the best steps to take.

I’ve been working as a project coordinator at a marketing firm for the past seven months, and I’ve finally decided to resign due to unbearable management and working conditions. My supervisor has been particularly difficult, often crossing personal boundaries and creating a chaotic work environment that has caused me significant stress. I initially joined the company with the understanding that I could work remotely, but I’ve been commuting four hours to the office since April. Just recently, I was informed that I would need to continue working in-office until mid-November, despite my requests for flexibility. During this conversation, my supervisor dismissed my concerns in a rather condescending manner, which was the last straw for me. I’ve prepared my two-week notice and plan to hand it over during our upcoming one-on-one meeting. However, I’m conflicted about how honest I should be about my reasons for leaving. I don’t want to burn any bridges, but I also feel that my experiences should be acknowledged. I know many people suggest framing a resignation as moving on to a new opportunity, but the truth is I don’t have another job lined up right now. I’ve been freelancing on the side, so I’m not leaving without a plan, but I’m unsure how to navigate this conversation without sounding bitter or unprofessional. I appreciate any advice on how to handle this situation.